Harvesting Wheat

All Harvesting Wheat Content

Weeds growing in a recently harvested winter wheat field.

Winter Wheat Decisions

Winter wheat planting will soon be starting and a number of decisions will have to be made for a successful winter wheat crop, including: the time of planting, the choice of variety to be planted, disease and pest management decisions and crop insurance.

partially flooded spring wheat field in early spring.

Spring Wheat 2019: A Repeat of Last Year?

The spring of 2019 has been cold and wet in many areas of South Dakota, similar to the spring of 2018. In 2018, despite the challenging weather, spring wheat acres were up 8% from 2017. However, planted acres in 2019 may be reduced as the extended weather forecast shows unfavorable planting conditions extending well into May.

a flooded wheat field with some emerging wheat plants.

Wet Feet in Wheat

Given the widespread wet conditions present this spring, there are many areas in winter wheat fields with both ponding and saturated (or waterlogged) soils. Producers may want to consider soil conditions and evaluate extended weather forecasts when deciding whether or not to retain a winter wheat this spring.

Row of well-maintained grain bins alongside a field.

A Few Considerations for Fall and Winter Grain Storage

Proper grain storage during fall and winter is essential to ensuring a successful harvest. Learn some expert tips for managing stored grain pests and maintaining an ideal bin environment for post-harvest grain storage.

Farmer calibrating a yield monitor insde a combine cab.

Comprehensive Guide to Grain Yield Monitoring Systems

A comprehensive guide to grain yield monitoring systems

Three pictures of a red combine with tan and black soybean and weed seeds spread throughout its surfaces.

Evidence That Combines Can Transport Weed Seeds

A combine deliberately harvests crop grain, but it can also unintentionally transport weed seeds. Learn some tips for cleaning equipment and containing residues during harvest to prevent weeds from spreading this fall.

Modern grain bin exterior with built-in staircase.

Grain Bin Safety Improvements

One major area of concern during fall harvest is producer safety in and around grain bins. Let’s examine some of the changes that producers could make to their current bins, which will help make them safer.

Green tractor driving down a road with low-hanging powerlines across it.

Agricultural Safety Around Overhead Lines

Every year farmers are injured or killed in electricity-related accidents. Assessing the electrocution hazards around your farm and fields and developing a safety plan for your operation can save lives.

Yellow wheat field with green weeds throughout.

At-Harvest and Post-Harvest Weed Management Tactics in Wheat

Many pre and postemergence herbicides did not adequately control weeds during the 2023 growing season due to early dry and hot conditions. Despite the poor control, there are still options to implement at-harvest and post-harvest to help manage weeds.

Young wheat plants showing early symptoms of drought stress.

Salvaging Drought-Stressed Small Grains

South Dakota producers often must consider whether to abandon plans to harvest small grain as a cash crop and pivot to harvesting as forage. Learn some factors to keep in mind when evaluating salvage options.